Outlandish history: the world-changing fiction of Diana Gabaldon

Maley, W. (2023) Outlandish history: the world-changing fiction of Diana Gabaldon. Historical Novels Review(103), pp. 8-9.

Abstract

Since the first novel launched in 1991 Outlander has ignited global interest in Scottish history, culture and language. The eighth instalment, Written in My Own Heart’s Blood, appeared in June 2014, and the TV adaptation premiered in August that year. Rumour has it that its UK release was delayed lest it influence the Scottish Independence Referendum held the following month. Scots looking to learn about their own history often turn to fiction because the education system has traditionally been weighted towards British subjects, and Outlander has certainly given them food for thought, as well as bringing their history to millions across the globe. The TV series has had the biggest onscreen impact on Scotland’s international image since Braveheart (1995), although Highlander (1986), the time-travelling adventure starring Sean Connery, perhaps offers a closer cultural comparison for the men in kilts phenomenon. Having said that, neither remotely comes close to the authenticity, complexity and historical accuracy of Gabaldon’s work.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: No
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Maley, Professor Willy
• Authors: Maley, W.
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Critical Studies > English Literature
• Journal Name: Historical Novels Review
• Publisher: Historical Novel Society
• ISSN: 1471-7492
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2023 Historical Novel Society
• First Published: First published in Historical Novels Review 103:8-9
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced with the permission of the publisher